ESSMA Development & Construction Workshop: the Highlights

This year’s Development & Construction Workshop was organised at Paris La Défense Arena. Over 38 members from 7 countries learned insights and shared knowledge related to the economic impact, multifunctional stadium concepts, stadium of the future and hospitality concepts.

Day 1

The first topic of the workshop focused on the economic impact of stadium development and the critical success factors. Thomas Könecke, from the University of Leuven, explained how his research focuses on several economical factors, inside and outside of the stadium, to determine the economical impact and “legacy” that a stadium can have on a city, a region of even a country. Furthermore, architect Oliver Page from SCAU shared stadium design trends and the added value of building a stadium which is connected with the city. In addition, Christian van Ginneke - Project Manager at Euroborg - presented the new multifunctional Elite Sports Training & Health Centre of Dutch Eredivisie club FC Groningen, which has officially been inaugurated on 13 October 2018.

Day 2

On Day 2, Tom Sheehan - architect at ATSP - shared with participants the stadium renovation at Parc des Princes and its VIP areas where the main challenge was renovating each m2to increase matchday revenue. Next, Alexandre Maumont focused on the construction phases of Paris La Défense Arena and its different configurations depending on the sports purpose e.g. tennis or basketball. Lastly, architect Francois Clement presented the redevelopment plan of Fulham FC’s Riverside Stand designed by Populous.The main focus of the project consists of the facilities switch on matchdays and non-matchdays to make sure people visit the stadium 365 days per year.

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